DIY Sunscreen
Many sunscreens contain chemical ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate. These chemicals are used to absorb UV rays, but studies have shown that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Some research has suggested that these chemicals may disrupt the endocrine system, affecting hormone balance and potentially leading to issues like early puberty or fertility problems.
Zinc Oxide & Shea Butter Sunscreen
This recipe is straightforward and effective for a natural sunscreen, combining the skin-soothing benefits of shea butter with the protective power of zinc oxide.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup shea butter
2–3 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide powder (adjust based on desired SPF level)
Instructions:
Melt the shea butter: In a double boiler or a glass bowl over simmering water, melt the shea butter until it’s fully liquid.
Mix in the zinc oxide: Remove the bowl from the heat and slowly add the zinc oxide powder. Stir thoroughly to make sure the zinc oxide is fully incorporated and there are no clumps. The amount of zinc oxide you add will determine the SPF. A general guideline is 2 tablespoons for an SPF of around 20–30, or 3 tablespoons for a higher SPF.
Cool and store: Pour the mixture into a small container or jar and allow it to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, it will solidify into a cream-like texture.
Usage: Apply this sunscreen generously to your skin before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating.
Zinc oxide will provide broad-spectrum protection, and this sunscreen should offer an SPF of around 30–40, depending on the ratio of zinc oxide to shea butter.
Coconut Oil & Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Coconut oil offers some natural sun protection, but it only provides SPF 4–6, which isn't sufficient for prolonged sun exposure. Adding zinc oxide increases the SPF, making it more effective. Zinc oxide is a physical blocker that scatters UV rays.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup coconut oil
2 tablespoons shea butter
2 tablespoons beeswax (for consistency and waterproofing)
1/4 cup non-nano zinc oxide powder (ensures that the particles are too large to be absorbed into the skin)
Instructions:
In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together.
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the zinc oxide powder. Be sure to mix thoroughly so that the zinc oxide is fully blended and doesn't clump.
Pour the mixture into a small jar or container and allow it to cool and solidify.
Once set, your DIY sunscreen is ready for use. Apply it generously on your skin before sun exposure.
Zinc oxide will provide broad-spectrum protection, and this sunscreen should offer an SPF of around 30–40, depending on the ratio of zinc oxide to other ingredients.
Aloe Vera and Raspberry Seed Oil Sunscreen
Raspberry seed oil is known for its natural UV-blocking properties and is a great ingredient for a DIY sunscreen. Aloe vera is soothing and helps calm the skin, which makes it perfect for sun protection.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup aloe vera gel (natural, unscented)
1/4 cup coconut oil (SPF 4–6)
1/4 cup raspberry seed oil (natural SPF of around 28–50)
2 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide powder (to boost the SPF)
10–15 drops of essential oil (such as lavender or carrot seed oil)
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and raspberry seed oil.
Add the zinc oxide powder and stir until it's fully incorporated.
Optionally, add essential oils for fragrance and extra skin benefits.
Pour the mixture into a small container and store it in the refrigerator to keep it cool.
Before use, shake well, as the mixture can separate over time.
This sunscreen should offer a decent amount of protection, with an SPF around 30–40. Raspberry seed oil is the star of this recipe, as it provides the highest level of protection.
Shea Butter & Carrot Seed Oil Sunscreen
Carrot seed oil is known for its antioxidant properties and has an SPF range of about 38–40. Combined with shea butter, this DIY sunscreen is rich and moisturizing while providing protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup shea butter
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons carrot seed oil
1/4 cup non-nano zinc oxide powder
Instructions:
In a double boiler, melt the shea butter and coconut oil together.
Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the carrot seed oil and zinc oxide powder. Be sure to mix thoroughly to avoid any lumps.
Pour the mixture into a jar or container, and let it cool until it solidifies.
Apply generously before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming.
This sunscreen offers a rich texture and is perfect for dry or sensitive skin. The combination of carrot seed oil and zinc oxide provides a good SPF range of 30-40.
Avocado & Almond Oil Sunscreen
Avocado oil is rich in antioxidants and offers natural UV protection. Almond oil is soothing and moisturizing, perfect for a lightweight sunscreen recipe.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup avocado oil
1/4 cup almond oil
2 tablespoons beeswax (to solidify)
2 tablespoons non-nano zinc oxide powder
Instructions:
Melt the beeswax in a double boiler.
Once melted, add the avocado oil and almond oil and stir.
Remove from heat and carefully mix in the zinc oxide powder, ensuring it’s fully integrated.
Pour the mixture into a jar and let it solidify at room temperature.
This sunscreen has a natural SPF around 30, depending on the amount of zinc oxide used.
Final Notes:
Test Patch: Always do a patch test before using a new DIY sunscreen on a larger area of your body to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients.
Reapplication: Natural sunscreens should be reapplied every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating.